Panama

Abstract

Ceramic objects unearthed on Panama’s Pacific coast suggest the area was settled from 2,500 BC. Maize cultivation began in southern Panama around 1,500 BC and by 300 BC it supported numerous large, permanent villages. Public architecture was in evidence by AD 500, along with pottery (Gran Code), gold ornaments and elaborate burial chambers. From AD 750 present-day Panama was widely settled by Chibchan, Chocoan and Cueva peoples, and there was trade with other groups across central America.